Pressure Equalization or Tympanostomy Tubes

Tympanostomy or Pressure Equalization Tubes (PET) are tubes that are placed into the eardrum to allow fluid and pressure to escape into the ear canal. PETs are usually placed during brief general anesthesia. An operating microscope is used to look in the ear canal. A small incision is placed in the eardrum, fluid is suctioned out, and the tube is placed into the hole.